Anatomy of the Endocrine System

The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and organs. It uses hormones to
control and coordinate your body's﻿ metabolism, energy level, reproduction, growth
and development, and response to injury, stress, and mood. The following are integral
parts of the endocrine system:

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Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is located at the base of the brain, near the optic chiasm ﻿﻿﻿where
the optic nerves behind each eye cross and meet. ﻿The hypothalamus secretes hormones
that stimulate or suppress the release of hormones in the pituitary gland, in addition
to controlling water balance, sleep, temperature, appetite, and blood pressure.

Pineal body. The pineal body is located below the corpus callosum, in the middle of the brain.
It produces the hormone melatonin, which helps the body know when it's time to sleep.

Pituitary. The pituitary gland is located below the brain. Usually no larger than a pea, the
gland controls many functions of the other endocrine glands.

Thyroid and parathyroid. The thyroid gland and parathyroid glands are located in front of the neck, below the
larynx (voice box). The thyroid plays an important role in the body's metabolism. The
parathyroid glands play an important role in the regulation of the body's calcium
balance.

Thymus. The thymus is located in the upper part of the chest and produces white blood cells
that fight infections and destroy abnormal cells.

Adrenal gland. An adrenal gland is located on top of each kidney. Like many glands, the adrenal glands
work hand-in-hand with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. The adrenal glands make
and release corticosteroid hormones and epinephrine that maintain blood pressure and
regulate metabolism.

Pancreas. The pancreas is located across the back of the abdomen, behind the stomach. The pancreas
plays a role in digestion, as well as hormone production. Hormones produced by the
pancreas include insulin and glucagon, which regulate levels of blood sugar.

Ovary. A woman's ovaries are located on both sides of the uterus, below the opening of the
fallopian tubes (tubes that extend from the uterus to the ovaries). In addition to
containing the egg cells necessary for reproduction, the ovaries also produce estrogen
and progesterone.

Testis. A man's testes are located in a pouch that hangs suspended outside the male body.
The testes produce testosterone and sperm.